Neill played Lois Lane in the 1948 and 1950 movies, alongside Kirk Alyn as Superman. She went on to play the character in the 50s TV series Adventures of Superman, with George Reeves in the title role.

Remaining close to the comic book character throughout her career, she made appearances in the 1978 Christopher Reeve Superman movie - as Lois's mother Ella - and in the 2006 Superman Returns film.

In a statement posted online, Ward wrote: "I found Noel to be generous with her time and the same person off the screen as she appeared to be on the screen. Her stamina was legendary as she happily made personal appearances and attended book signings well into her 90th year.

"She was kind, selfless, hard-working, funny with a quick wit, and assertive - all the same qualities that embodied the character of Lois Lane.

"Noel truly was Lois Lane... Few of her fans actually knew her real name, almost always simply calling her 'Lois' to which she would unfailing answer with a bright smile and a kind word."

He added: "Noel Neill maintained that bright, perky and engaging personality up until her death."

As an 18-year-old actress, Neill moved to Hollywood and was hired by crooner Bing Crosby to sing at his Turf Club.

With Crosby's help, she was later signed to a contract at Paramount and went on to make around 100 films during her long career.

Since Neill gave Lois her on-screen debut, the character has been played by actresses including Margot Kidder, Kate Bosworth and Amy Adams.

Her funeral will be held in private, with a public memorial planned for later in the year.